Handgun Recommendations

[k9870]

I have a g19 for carry but a cz75 if its carried openly, both are awesome. I prefer 9mm guns due to cartidge price and avalibility.

[SPEMack618]

As big of a fan of the .45 ACP and 10mm I am, in today's economy and in today's world of premium defensive ammo, there is no real reason not to use a 9mm.

The Glock 19 being a good starter gun.

[predator20]

What's your price range? All steel or polymer frame? What's your experience with guns? While the G19 is a great all around pistol, it's not very forgiving to mishandling. While the learning curve is short, it's not for the inexperienced in my opinion.

I always recommend something that's DA/SA first. Something like a SIG P228 has a decocker only, so no safeties to deal with, plenty of ones with slide mounted safeties like the S&W 6900 series etc if you're into that. The heavy DA pull on the first shot will keep you from making a boo boo.

If at all possible, find a gun range that rents them and try a variety out.

[Jcordell]

Yes rent a few and try them out. Also take a basic pistol class if at all possible. The NRA has some excellent classes available for a reasonable cost. The basic pistol class is (I believe) just one day long, but will teach you quite a few things.

I would stay away from the 1911 pistols. The G19 is a good one, but get some training or instruction from somebody who is experienced with handguns.

[SPEMack618]

I dislike the SA/DA style pistols for a new shooter simply because there is an excess of controls to learn for a beginning shooter. Just my opinion.

[Jcordell]

Ruger, Glock. Beretta, S&W and Sig all make good pistols in 9mm that are reliable, accurate and easy to operate with simple manual of arms. Once again stay away from the 1911 pistols until you get more experienced.

[SPEMack618]

I forgot about Ruger.....I had an ex-girlfriend who purchased an SR9C and was totally happy about it. As was I. Good gun.

Made in America, too.